Congresswoman Louise Slaughter (NY-25), announced that the West Webster Fire Department has been awarded a $305,279 grant through the Assistance for Firefighter Grant (AFG) program from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“It is of the utmost importance to support and invest in our local fire departments. These brave first responders make all the difference in emergencies. Training and state-of-the-art equipment are the surest ways that we can help these men and women be prepared when they are needed the most,” said Rep. Slaughter. “The West Webster Fire Department is forever in our hearts. When they faced unimaginable tragedy, they showed and continue to show their strength and spirit by doing their job and protecting our community. With this grant, the department will be able to improve the quality of their communication equipment, which will allow them to be more prepared during emergencies.”

The West Webster Fire Department applied to FEMA’s Operation and Safety program of the AFG Program. Operation and Safety grant projects include professional training, wellness equipment, personal protective equipment, modifications to facilities, and supplies that support firefighting and non-affiliated EMS operations and safety. The West Webster Fire Department will use this grant money to purchase Portable Radios and Mobile Repeater radio equipment. This grant will allow the installation of repeaters on all fleet apparatus, including EMS vehicles.

The fire district has been able to secure over $600,000 in grant funding since 2012 for major capital purchases, thereby providing the taxpayers with the best possible service at the lowest cost.